How do you power the rail in an old school carnival dark ride?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on powering a dark ride or ghost train using an onboard DC motor within a 1000 sq ft area. Key considerations include the need for a dead area of track for loading and unloading, the voltage requirements for AC power, and the necessary rectifiers and transformers for connecting power to the track. Safety compliance with relevant codes is emphasized, and adapting commercial golf carts is suggested as a practical solution for achieving the desired functionality.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of DC motor operation and specifications
  • Knowledge of AC voltage requirements and electrical safety codes
  • Familiarity with rectifiers and transformers for power conversion
  • Basic mechanical skills for integrating electrical components into a ride
NEXT STEPS
  • Research AC voltage requirements for DC motor applications
  • Learn about the installation and configuration of rectifiers and transformers
  • Investigate safety codes applicable to amusement rides
  • Explore modifications and adaptations of commercial golf carts for ride use
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for amusement ride designers, electrical engineers, and hobbyists interested in building or modifying dark rides and similar attractions.

hilltopzombie
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I am pretty good with mechanical stuff like motors and guns, but I know next to nothing when it comes to electricity.

I want to build a dark ride/ghost train/pretzel ride in an area about 1000 sq ft. I want to keep it as simple as possible. The track will wind around through this area. The cars will be powered by an onboard dc motor. There needs to be a dead area of track where the cars will come to a stop for loading and unloading. Once I'm seated, the car can be shoved forward onto the live rail and start propelling itself.

How much voltage AC would be needed. How many rectifiers/transformers would be needed to connect the power to the track? What size? Who sells them? If the brush from the motor rubs against the live rail, where does the ground go? Would your average electrician know how to hook this up?

Please have mercy on my ignorance.

Thanks-
 
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None of us are expert at everything. However, before designing electrical things that might have safety problems, a fair amount of knowledge and experience is necessary. Part of the knowledge has to do with the numerous safety codes such a ride must comply with.

I suggest that the easiest and safest way for you to proceed, is to adapt commercial golf carts to the purpose. Even then, you must find out the applicable safety codes and comply with them.

Good luck,
 

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